Windy City Hoops League Play Tips Off Tonight with Simultaneous Jump Ball at All 10 Sites

4/19/2013

After four weeks of recruitment and open gym, league play for Windy City Hoops begins tonight with a simultaneous jump ball at 7:30 p.m. at all 10 sites. The season will conclude with playoffs and local park championships on Saturday, June 1. Click here to watch a video about the program.

“Thanks to the support of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, the Chicago Police Department and both private and corporate sponsors, the Chicago Park District is able to provide this program to encourage safe and active communities,” said Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Michael Kelly.

Mayor Emanuel announced the expansion of the program in February, which will give 3,200 at-risk youth opportunities to play basketball year round in a safe environment.

The mayor enlisted Chicagoans to donate $480,000 towards the program to cover uniforms, game referees, and other costs. Major sponsors included Sammons Financial Group and the Gardner Family Foundation. Additional support came from Integrys Energy Services and GEM Realty Capital, Inc.

“Windy City Hoops gives our kids a safe place to play and grow in Chicago,” said Steve Palmitier, President and Chief Operating Officer of Sammons Financial Group. “Our children and families deserve an opportunity to choose safe, positive alternatives. Sammons Financial Group is proud to be a part of this successful campaign, and even more thrilled to see the program in action.”

Gary Gardner of the Gardner Family Foundation added, “We are excited about the possibilities that this program will bring to the young men and women in our city. Channeling our youth's energy and competitive spirit on the court will go a long way in keeping them safe and feeling great about themselves. It is essential that the children in our community know that they are loved and cherished.”

Boys and girls ages 13-18 can play basketball in the admission-free program, which now has extended hours. Youth can play Fridays from 7-10 p.m. and Saturdays from 5-10 p.m. Summer session will run June 14-Aug. 24.

Ron Cardwell, Vice President with Integrys Energy Services, said, “As the electric aggregation supplier for the City, Integrys is pleased to be able to demonstrate our commitment to Chicago by supporting this program to help reduce violence and provide a positive outlet to at-risk youth and young adults.”

The Chicago Park District is the largest municipal park manager in the nation and owner of more than 8,100 acres of green space. We invite you to take in a concert or a movie at one of our 580 parks, to expand your horizons by registering for one of our thousands of programs offered throughout our 260 field houses, to get a great workout indoors at one of our state-of-the-art fitness centers, or outdoors along Lake Michigan’s 26 miles of pristine lakefront, or enjoy nature with a peaceful visit.